Jump to content

Recommended Posts

  • Members
Posted

I'm attempting to do a project with beta-Biothane and I can't find a successful way to punch holes. The Biothane is 5/8" thick and a typical revolving leather punch isn't working. I tried using and electric drill but it doesn't make very clean holes. Any tips or ideas? Or any tools I need to purchase? 

  • Members
Posted (edited)

I am not sure what that material is.  I have a hole punch that is made to go in a drill.  It is shaped, on the business end, much like a hole punch you would strike with a mallet.    It is used in making holes in very heavy rubber conveyor belt and attaching the hinge seam.  I originally got it from applied.  If that sounds like something you might be interested in I can try to remember to take a picture of it this evening to help in your search. 

Edited by Brianm77
  • Members
Posted

Biothane has a nylon webbing core. Easiest way i know to punch holes is to take and heat up something like a nail and push it through. It essentially melts a hole through.

  • Members
Posted
1 hour ago, Tommyboy said:

Biothane has a nylon webbing core. Easiest way i know to punch holes is to take and heat up something like a nail and push it through. It essentially melts a hole through.

I'm thinking of trying that, but I'm wanting to punch holes bigger than the nail. Probably about a 1/4 of an inch in diameter 

  • Contributing Member
Posted

you can get nails which are bigger than 1/4" diameter

Al speling misteaks aer all mi own werk..

  • Members
Posted

I was thinking about buckle sized holes. For larger holes you'll need a hollow punch set. Again heat 'em up and push through. Something i didn't mention before, use a piece of scrap to try different temps. Too hot and it makes a charred edge.

  • Members
Posted

So her is the bit I was talking about.  It goes in a drill.  This one I believe is for a 1/4" hole.  I used to use it on some rubber that was about 3/8" or 1/2" thick and reinforced with nylon strands.  It worked nicely.  No heating required.  Pricey though, I believe it was like $28. 

IMG_1523.JPG

Posted

Have you tried a forstner bit? They put really clean holes in wood.

I'm not paying 80 bucks for a belt!!! It's a strip of leather. How hard could it be? 4 years and 3 grand later.... I have a belt I can finally live with.

Stitching is like gravy, it's only great if you make it every day.

From Texas but in Bossier City, Louisiana.

Posted

That picture above is a bit used to lace rubber belting. Look for them from someone that sales conveyer belts. You should be able to get them 1/4" - 3/8" 

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

×
×
  • Create New...